It’s a completely new experience for Scott Vernon as he embarks on his first season with Cleethorpes Town.

The former Grimsby Town striker is set to make his competitive debut for the Owls tomorrow as the club begin their new season in the Evo-Stik East Division.

But, for the first time since becoming a professional with Oldham in 2002, the 34-year-old won’t be heading to training on Monday after the clash with Spalding United (3pm).

Instead, he’ll be heading to his new job as a plumber after working on a night course during his final year with the Mariners last season.

Despite the change in career, though, the desire to stay in football remains with Vernon – and Clee represent the perfect opportunity for the striker to juggle both aspects of his new life.

“Decisions had to be made in the summer – obviously I’ve only been here a few weeks, but on a personal note it fits in with the stage I’m in at the moment,” Vernon told the Telegraph.

“I’ve come out of full-time football, which I’ve been playing since I left school. It was a big decision, but it’s the stage I’m at now, and I’ve got other things going on as well so I felt it was the right time for me.

Vernon made 62 appearances in all competitions for Grimsby Town before departing the club earlier in the summer. (Image: Rick Byrne)

“It’s all about making that transition, that’s the way I look at it now because I can’t play forever, I’m 34 now.

“I’m just trying to make that transition smooth and not just jump out of one thing into another, but I’m enjoying it.”

On his move to the Linden Club, Vernon added: “It was a case of wanting to stay local really.

“I’d moved the family up on a two-year deal at Grimsby, the missus has got a little business going quite well and the kids are in school, so it just made sense for us.

“We’re both quite happy here, and I was never going to travel too far – wherever I went, it was always going to be a commutable drive, and Clee are just five minutes around the corner so it’s really handy!”

While Vernon finds himself playing in non-league for the first time in his career, the competitive streak remains as he prepares for his newest challenge in the Evo-Stik.

And, having seen what his new team-mates possess – including his former captain with the Mariners, Craig Disley – the striker is anticipating big things for the Owls this season.